California Sales Tax Calculator 2026
Figures verified
The California state sales tax is 7.25%, and the average shopper pays 9.03% once local taxes are added. Calculate the tax on any purchase, or work backwards from a receipt total.
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Sales tax on $100.00 at 9.03% is $9.03, for a total of $109.03.
Total with tax
$109.03
at 9.03% combined rate
- Sales tax
- $9.03
- Pre-tax price
- $100.00
- State rate
- 7.25%
- Avg. local rate
- 1.78%
- max 5.25%
California sales tax explained
California charges a 7.25% state sales tax. Cities, counties, and special districts add their own rates, up to 5.25% more, so the combined rate depends on where the sale happens. Weighted by population, the average combined rate is 9.03%, ranking #7 of the 50 states and D.C.
Groceries are exempt from sales tax in California.
- The 7.25% base includes a mandatory 1.25% uniform local rate. Groceries and prescription drugs are exempt.
Quick reference at 9.03%
| Price | Tax | Total |
|---|---|---|
| $25.00 | $2.26 | $27.26 |
| $100.00 | $9.03 | $109.03 |
| $500.00 | $45.15 | $545.15 |
| $1,500.00 | $135.45 | $1,635.45 |
| $30,000.00 | $2,709.00 | $32,709.00 |
Frequently asked questions
What is the sales tax rate in California?
The California state sales tax rate is 7.25%. Local rates add up to 5.25%, and the average shopper pays a combined 9.03%. That ranks California #7 of 51 for average combined rate.
Are groceries taxed in California?
Groceries are exempt from sales tax in California.
How much is sales tax on a $30,000 car in California?
At the average combined rate of 9.03%, tax on a $30,000 purchase would be about $2,709. Many states tax vehicles differently: some apply only the state rate, cap the tax, or allow a trade-in credit. Check the California motor vehicle agency for the exact rule.
How do I back out sales tax from a total?
Switch on "I know the total" above, or divide the total by 1 plus the rate. For example, a $108.25 receipt at 8.25% is $100.00 before tax.
Data sources & last verified
Last verified
- Tax Foundation, 2026 Sales Tax Rates, Midyear Update (state and average local rates as of July 1, 2026) (opens in new tab) Retrieved · effective July 1, 2026
We re-check these figures when agencies publish updates and at least quarterly. See our data policy for how corrections are handled, or report an error.